VZ Verizon Communications Inc

Verizon has joined forces with Digital Catapult, the UK’s leading advanced digital technology innovation centre, to launch an immersive accelerator programme to develop innovative 5G solutions for enterprises. The programme will enable a select number of retail and brand partners to work directly with startups and technology innovators to explore how 5G-enabled solutions can solve their real-world business challenges. They will use Verizon’s 5G and edge computing capabilities in Verizon’s London 5G Lab and production studio to develop prototypes over a seven-month period.

Verizon’s London 5G Lab and production studio launched in February 2020 – the company’s first 5G-enabled facility outside the United States. The London Lab offers a live Verizon 5G-enabled environment where organizations can develop and test 5G applications and experiences, and explore the boundaries of 5G network technology. A number of use cases demonstrating how 5G's super-fast speeds, massive bandwidth and ultra-low latency can transform industry  experiences are already showcased at the Lab, including an augmented shopping experience, virtual events and experiences, smart retail shelving, intelligent asset management and AR-enabled workspace reimagining.

In addition, Verizon’s production studio, RYOT, gives innovators the ability to produce premium quality, 3D content including virtual and augmented reality experiences, such as virtual events, using RYOT’s state-of-the-art capabilities like volumetric capture, motion capture and AR broadcast from its facilities in London.

Christian Guirnalda, Verizon’s director of 5G Labs and Innovation Centers, commented: “More than ever, industries are looking to rapidly innovate out of business necessity - and in months instead of years. Next gen digital channels, remote experiences, immersive content at home and on the go... these are new ways to better serve customers, all unlocked by 5G. By pairing startups and creators with brands and providing access to a 5G environment and tools, we will together support the local entrepreneurial community and continue to accelerate the 5G ecosystem.”

Digital Catapult helps organisations of all sizes to discover new ways of solving industry challenges, increase productivity and open up new markets. The organisation designs and delivers specialised innovation programmes utilising advanced digital technologies - including 5G, AI and Immersive - to drive UK leadership and economic growth.  Digital Catapult will provide retail partners participating in the accelerator with access to leaders in the UK startup and innovator community.

Geraldina Iraheta, Director of Business Development at Digital Catapult, commented: “This accelerator is an incredible opportunity to bring 5G to life, proving its potential in real-world environments and revolutionising the retail experience for consumers. We’re excited to be working with Verizon to showcase the future of retail in this way.”

Learn more about Verizon 5G Labs and Verizon 5G technology.

About VerizonVerizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is celebrating its 20th year as one of the world’s leading providers of technology, communications, information and entertainment products and services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $131.9 billion in 2019.  The company offers voice, data and video services and solutions on its award winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control. 

About Digital CatapultDigital Catapult produced the UK’s first commercial 5G testbed and now works with companies in the early stages of exploring the case for 5G adoption through to those fully engaged in exploiting its value. Digital Catapult’s network of 5G testbeds in London and Brighton are connected to the 5G University Test Network (5GUK) through the 5GUKExchange and offer unprecedented access for businesses to test and develop products and services using 5G.

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Media contact: Clare Ward  +44 (0) 773 88 9326 Clare.ward@uk.verizon.com